2017 Australian Open Day 9

2017 Australian Open day 9 saw us into the first of the quarter final matches. Switzerland was represented by two of the competitors today in the form of Roger Federer and Stan Wawrinka. Depending on which bookies you check one of these players has been dubbed the favourite since Andy Murray’s fourth round exit.

Federer, of course, is quite probably the greatest tennis player in history of the game. So despite his advanced age (in tennis years) and his recent injury layoff, his pedigree and recent performances make him a strong prospect for the title. Wawrinka, on the other hand, is the most recent and consistent Grand Slam champion left in the draw. He has won a Slam every year for the past three years, including the last Slam; the US Open.

But before any chance of a title, they have to get by the quarter finals.

Wawrinka Vs. Tsonga

Stan Wawrinka’s opponent was the powerhouse that is Jo-Wilfried Tsonga. Tsonga, much like his compatriot Gael Monfils, is a bundle of natural talent that never quite seems to be able to take that final step. That story didn’t change today, unfortunately.

Heading into the match, the pair had a close head to head, with Stan slightly edging it 4—3. It had the makings of a close game, and that was born out by the opening set. Wawrinka sealed it with a tiebreak, and then went on to take the next two sets far more comfortably. The match ended 7—6(7—2), 6—4, 6—3 to Stan the Man.

Federer Vs Zverev

To make it the semis, Federer would have to get past Andy Murray’s conqueror, Mischa Zverev. What proved too difficult for the world number one was all too easy for the Fed Express.

Roger Federer was able to seal the first set in under 20 minutes, and went on to take the match 6—1, 7—5, 6—2. The Swiss was in imperious form, his famous one-handed backhand landing perfectly time after time.

So we will have an all-Swiss semi final. Tomorrow we find out who will fill the other bracket!